Branding Photoshoot Guide for Coaches, Creatives & Entrepreneurs
If you’re here, you’re probably planning (or daydreaming about) your next brand photoshoot — how exciting! The creative direction behind your shoot is so much more than a to-do on your brand-building list. It’s one of the most powerful ways to visually express your energy and the essence of your work.
That said, I know it can feel like a lot — what to wear, where to shoot, how to pose, what props to bring… it’s enough to make you want to just post another sunset pic and call it a day. But when you lead with heart and intention, your shoot becomes more than just pretty pictures — it becomes a portal into who you are and who you’re becoming. Whether you’re rebranding, launching something new, or finally ready to be seen, this guide will walk you through creating a photoshoot that feels fully you — aligned, expansive, and totally magnetic.
#1 Your Intention: Start With the Heart
Before anything else — drop in. What do you want this shoot to represent? Is it a new era, a rebrand, or a full claiming of who you are now? Set the energy first, and let it guide everything else.
#2 Your Brand Identity: Align with Your Visual Vibe
What’s your brand’s essence? What colors, feelings, or words describe it? Revisit your brand boards or The Heart-Led Brand work — this is your visual compass for the shoot. If you haven’t created your brand identity yet, I suggest starting here! Having clarity around your brand visuals will make planning your photography vibe 10000000% more effective.
#3 Your Photographer: Choose Someone Who Gets You
You may be focused on your photographer’s portfolio or searching for the best rates… but consider your connection to them. Find someone who understands both your aesthetic and your energy. Connection is key. You want to feel safe, seen, and supported — so your full self can shine through the lens. The right photographer will help you feel grounded and confident every step of the way.
#4 How You’re Using the Photos: Let Strategy Support Your Soul
Get clear on where the photos will live — website banners, sales pages, email headers, course graphics, podcast covers, Instagram. When you know what you need, you’ll shoot with intention and save time later. Share this with your photographer so they can shoot with the right framing and orientations in mind.
#5 Your Pre-Shoot Mindset: You Deserve to Be Seen
Nerves are normal, but remember — you’re not alone. Prep your energy beforehand: meditate, journal, dance it out — whatever grounds you. Anchor into the version of you you’re stepping into, and let her lead the day. Your hair and makeup might be done and your outfit on point, but your energy is what truly shines through. Prioritize it as part of your prep!
#6 The Feeling You Want to Evoke: What’s the Frequency?
Do you want your brand to feel grounded, luxurious, playful, peaceful, bold, soft, magical? Let that frequency guide your poses, location, and styling. It’s not just what your brand looks like — it’s how it feels. If you aren’t sure, The Heart-Led Brand program can help you uncover your brand’s essence and bring it to life visually.
#7 The Setting: Location = Energy
Do you want nature, a cozy studio, your home, a modern space? Choose settings that reflect your brand’s vibe and the feeling you want to communicate. Bonus points if it’s a place where you feel fully like you.
#8 Your Outfits: Let Yourself Feel Beautiful
Pick outfits that feel amazing — not just ones that look good. Think texture, movement, and layering. Stay on-brand with colors, but prioritize comfort and confidence. You want to embody the emotions you want your brand to hold. You don’t have to stick with a standard headshot vibe. Let your photos feel like you — fun, sexy, playful, grounded, peaceful, welcoming, bold. Ditch the rulebook and wear what makes you feel absolutely beautiful.
#9 The Props: Bring the Magic In
Crystals, candles, your journal, laptop, tea mugs, flowers, sound bowls — whatever represents your work and your world. Props help tell your story. Think about what surrounds you when you’re in your flow. Pro tip: ask your photographer to capture some detail shots of these items on their own — they make perfect visuals for your website and socials.
#10 Your Shot List: Make a Visual Checklist
Create a list of must-haves: headshots, lifestyle/action shots, working with clients, close-ups of tools, both horizontal and vertical formats, images with negative space, and behind-the-scenes moments. Negative space is key — you’ll want space for overlays and design later. Be intentional now to make your content creation flow easier later.
#11 Your Poses: Play, Move, Laugh, Breathe
Your energy is the most magnetic thing in the frame. Don’t worry about stiff poses — let yourself move, breathe, laugh, dance. Trust your photographer, but bring a few movements or postures that feel authentic to you.
#12 Post-Shoot Integration: Use Your Photos With Intention
Once your images arrive, take time to organize and curate. Choose your favorites and plug them into your brand assets: website, Canva templates, course materials, sales pages, social content. This is your glow-up moment — make it count!
Your branding photos are more than content — they’re visual affirmations of your soul’s work. When they’re infused with your true essence, they don’t just look good — they resonate. They connect. They magnetize the right people to you.
If you’re craving more support with clarifying your brand energy, visual identity, or overall vibe, my self-guided program The Heart-Led Brand walks you through it step-by-step (Canva templates included!). You’ll find everything you need to create a brand that feels aligned, looks stunning — and helps you walk into your next shoot with total clarity and confidence.
